Arnold Schwarzenegger and Maria Shriver Separate

The former first couple released a joint statement on the separation. "This has been a time of great personal and professional transition for each of us. After a great deal of thought, reflection, discussion and prayer, we came to this decision together. At this time, we are living apart while we work on the future of our relationship.

The statement continued, "We are continuing to parent our four children together. They are the light and the center of both of our lives. We consider this a private matter and neither we nor any of our friends or family will have further comment. We ask for compassion and respect from the media and the public."

The two seemed to be leading separate lives since Schwarzenegger left the governor's office in January. Shriver, 55, has worked on her women's empowerment website and guest edited an issue of Oprah Winfrey's magazine. She also promoted causes, such as Alzheimer's research. Her father, Sargent Shriver, who died in January at age 95, suffered from the disease.

Maria talked about how the future can be uncertain, as seen in a recent YouTube video to supporters. Watch!

Meanwhile, the former governor, 63, has announced his intentions on making a showbiz comeback, signing on to star in three films, including another installment in the "Terminator" series.

The couple has had issues over the years with their marriage. During the 2003 recall of Gov. Gray Davis, Schwarzenegger's history of groping women came to light, but Shriver stood by her husband, helping him to win the race.